Formal Aspects of Computing

Special Issue on the History of Formal Methods

 

Guest Editors:

•  Cliff Jones, Newcastle University, UK, cliff.jones@newcastle.ac.uk

•  Jim Woodcock, University of York, UK, jim.woodcock@york.ac.uk

 

Formal Aspects of Computing is pleased to announce a call for papers for a special issue dedicated to the history of formal methods. These techniques encompass mathematically based strategies for the specification, development, and verification of software and hardware systems and have played a crucial role in advancing computing. This special issue will shed light on the historical development, key figures, landmark projects, and the broader impact of formal methods over the years.

 

 

Topics

We invite submissions of original research papers, review articles, and insightful essays that explore various historical aspects of formal methods, including but not limited to:

·       Foundational Developments: Early theoretical foundations and seminal works that shaped the field of formal methods.

·       Pioneering Researchers and Institutions: Biographical studies and institutional histories highlighting contributions to advancing formal methods.

·       Case Studies of Influential Projects: In-depth historical analyses of significant projects, systems, or technologies that prominently featured formal methods.

·       Technological and Methodological Evolution: The progression and refinement of formal methods, tools, and techniques.

·       Impact on Software and Hardware Engineering: The influence of formal methods on software and hardware engineering practices and methodologies.

·       Educational Contributions and Initiatives: The role of formal methods in academic curricula and educational programs.

·       Comparative Historical Studies: Cross-disciplinary and cross-cultural comparisons of formal methods with similar approaches in other fields.

·       Archival Discoveries: Research based on previously unpublished documents, correspondence, and archival materials related to formal methods.

·       Reflections on Historiography: Methodological and historiographical reflections on researching and documenting the history of formal methods.

 

Important Dates

·       Submission Deadline: 14 July 2025

·       Notification of Acceptance: 15 September 2025

·       Final Manuscript Due: 15 December 2025

·       Publication Date: March 2026

Submission Guidelines:

·       Manuscript Preparation: Submissions should be original, unpublished works and adhere to the journal's formatting guidelines. Detailed submission instructions are available on the FormalAspects of Computing website.

·       Length: Full-length research articles should be at least 16 pages. Shorter articles, including historical notes and essays, are also welcome.

·       Format: Manuscripts should be submitted in PDF format. Authors are encouraged to useLaTeX for document preparation, though Word submissions are also accepted.

·       Peer Review: All submissions will be reviewed by distinguished formal methods and computing history experts.

 

Submission Portal:

Manuscripts should be submitted electronically through the journal's online submission system at https://mc.manuscriptcentral.com/fac.

For questions and further information, please get in touch with the special issue editors at cliff.jones@newcastle.ac.uk and jim.woodcock@york.ac.uk.

We look forward to your contributions to this special issue exploring the rich history of formal methods.